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How Are Mini Dab Rigs Different From Full-Sized Ones?

by Hemper Co 4 min read

How Are Mini Dab Rigs Different From Full-Sized Ones?

Though dab rigs are still a relatively young product compared to your classic bongs and pipes, swarms of cannabis and cannabinoid lovers have been using them to enjoy a more intense high for roughly the past two decades. Dabbing is done using vaporized, concentrated cannabis, providing you with the heightened sensation and stronger flavor you know and love. 

Like bongs, dab rigs come in many shapes, sizes, and designs. Generally, though, we can separate them into two categories: mini and full-sized. While they appear similar aesthetically, there are a few distinctions that might influence which one you decide to use for your dabbing sessions. 

Today, we're going to explore these differences in-depth to help you maximize your dabbing enjoyment. Whether you're new to dabbing or you want to buy a new rig for your collection (you can never have too many!), we have you covered.

Differences Between Mini and Full-Sized Dab Rigs

Taste and Airflow

Full-sized dab rigs will create more vapor with each hit. While this is great for anyone looking for a big rip, it also means that more of a less-dense concentrate is needed to achieve the desired effects. 

On the other hand, vapor becomes denser and more concentrated in mini dab rigs due to their smaller size. The less air traveling through the piece, the more flavor and thicker clouds it produces. While any size rig will provide a more potent taste than a water piece, it will intensify further with smaller sizes and more restricted airflow. 

With the restricted airflow and concentrated hits offered by mini rigs, you won’t need to use as much concentrate in each session. That means that your purchases will last longer, and you'll still have plenty left for the next time you’re ready to dab.

Portability

While they’re certainly cool to show off at the sesh, walking up to your buddy’s house carrying a large glass rig may be a little inconvenient. A smaller dab rig is perfect for taking to someone's house to smoke or packing on a vacation (driving only, we don't recommend trying to fly with a dab rig). You can easily place it in a well-padded container of your choosing for discrete use on the go. 

Maintenance

Ah, everyone’s favorite part of owning a rig: cleaning it.

A mini dab rig has less surface area, resulting in less residue buildup to clean and maintain. However, for some mini rigs, the smaller openings and components might be difficult to reach compared to larger ones.

Meanwhile, the extra surface area in larger rigs can make for a more tedious cleaning process because more tubing allows for more oil to build up.

Durability

In terms of breakability, dab rigs are typically made of borosilicate glass, which can withstand more physical abuse than standard glass. Though we obviously don't recommend dropping or knocking your dab rig over, if it happens, it’s more likely to remain intact than a drinking glass, per se. 

While durability differences are a small margin between mini and full-size rigs, a mini will have a slight advantage in terms of breakage resistance. Less surface area means less glass at risk of either being knocked over or falling to the ground. 

Affordability

Lastly, smaller dab rigs are made with less material and cost less to manufacture. As a result, these savings are passed onto you. If you’re balling on a budget, many high-quality mini rigs can be yours for under $100. 

How to Choose Between a Mini Dab Rig and Full-Sized

So now that we’ve compared mini and full-size rigs, how do you choose the right one for you? 

If you read the above and you still can’t decide, then we’re sorry to say that you’re doomed to live the rest of your life in uncertainty. 

Just kidding, of course. Here are some key factors to consider when you’re finally ready to make your selection: 

Size: If you’re concerned about space or portability, go with a mini dab rig. They’re easy to store and can create more room in your glass collection than a full-sized rig. If you want a large, statement-making piece to keep in your home, a full-sized one will give you that aesthetic appeal and is bound to impress your guests. 

Nail Sizes: If you have a larger nail size, go with a large rig that can accommodate it. If you’re okay with a smaller nail size, then a mini rig will do just fine. 

Portability: In this category, mini dab rigs win outright. If you plan to dab on the go or travel with your rig, a mini should be your pick. While large rigs make a statement, they are bulky and can be very difficult to travel with. 

Vapor: If you want larger quantities of vapor and prefer a milder flavor, we suggest a full-sized rig. For those seeking more potent, concentrated clouds and love the terpy taste of dabs, a mini rig is the way to go. 

Grab a Mini Dab Rig And Experience the Difference

At Hemper, we’re all about supplying you with the best gear to enjoy your next sesh. From bongs to dab rigs and cleaning tools, we have everything that you need to indulge in your favorite cannabinoid when you’re in the mood. 

Regardless of what size best fits your vibe, you can’t go wrong with our high-quality, complete selection of mini and full-sized rigs. 

To learn more, browse our collection or get in touch with us anytime.

Check out our collection of cool bongs for sale, Best Sellers and New Arrivals.

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